Stop the World [Deluxe Edition]

The only studio album from Ghost Dance came after four years of moderate critical appreciation. Unfortunately, having signed to a major label, much of the band's edge was lost in the typically fluffy production job. Having ditched most of the goth mannerisms that won them their limited fame in the first place, Ghost Dance also lost most of their individual touches. The somewhat wistful quality to their music has been replaced by standard pop sensibilities that sink the group into bland mediocrity. The title track and opener "Down to the Wire" show glimpses of promise, but fans are better off seeking out Gathering Dust, a compilation of some of the band's early singles. ~ Jim Harper